The Pros and Cons of Electric Cars
The Pros and Cons of Electric Cars
There are many reasons to consider purchasing an electric car than sticking with a conventional car. Although electric vehicle ownership is on the rise, there are common concerns that may be holding you back from making the leap from a gas-powered vehicle to an electric vehicle. This guide will take you through the numerous benefits of owning an electric car, while also tackling the three main cons of electric vehicles—upfront cost, charging time, and range anxiety. By the end, you will feel confident in knowing the truth about EVs and the countless upsides to moving away from a gas vehicle.
What are the Pros and Cons of Electric Cars
The main crux of the electric vehicle conversation is around cost, misconceptions about battery life, performance, and convenience. However, when facts regarding the pros and cons of electric vehicles are laid out, it is immediately clear how worthwhile shifting to electric can be.
The Pros of Owning an Electric Car
Electric vehicles offer a wide range of benefits for both EV owners and the environment. Some of the high-level pros of driving electric include:
• Reduced Emissions – Not only do electric cars produce no tailpipe emissions into our ailing atmosphere, but these positive effects can be further enhanced by powering your car with electricity from renewable energy sources, like solar power. When compared to a gasoline vehicle, electric vehicle emissions are significantly lower, which reduces CO2 emission, lowering your carbon footprint.
• Electrifying Performance – Because electric cars don't rely on internal combustion engines, you can enjoy a smooth, quiet ride with better acceleration and less required maintenance than a conventional vehicle.
• No More Gas Costs – On average, Americans spend around $3,000 every year on gas, depending on their state and car’s fuel efficiency. With a fully electric car, your gas bill will be reduced to zero, so your wallet can feel just as good as your smooth, electric ride.
• Lower Maintenance Costs – Do electric cars save you money? The short answer is yes. Because electric cars are not powered by a complex internal combustion engine, the recurring costs associated with gas-fueled vehicles don’t apply. Gone are the days of oil changes and costly, inconvenient engine work. Not to mention, with regenerative braking your brakes won’t wear as quickly and will not need replacing as often.
• Incentives and Rebates – Depending on which country or state you are in, you may be eligible for many attractive tax credits and incentives that lower the cost of your electric vehicle considerably, offsetting the upfront price of electric cars that usually turns new buyers away. This is further outlined in the Infrastructure Bill EV Credit.
Debunking the Cons
Although the benefits are attractive, many consumers are hesitant to pull the trigger on an electric car due to concerns over range, charging, and costs. Not only do the benefits of owning an electric car far outweigh the costs, but also many of these common concerns are either misapprehensions or will soon be non-issues due to rapid technological improvements.
Range Anxiety
Range anxiety is perhaps the most pervasive fear of driving an electric vehicle. Concerns that the range of EV models will leave drivers stranded or inconvenienced as they wait for drawn-out charging times. While these concerns are understandable, they are often blown out of proportion and do not reflect the realities of driving an EV.
Here’s why you shouldn’t worry:
• Electric vehicles can go far on a single charge. For the 2021 model year, the median range for EVs was 234 miles. While this pales in comparison to many longer-range electric models, this range still exceeds the distance that most consumers commute on a day to day basis. As long as drivers plug in every night or two, even the lowest range EVs can fulfill most drivers’ needs.
• As technology improves, electric vehicle ranges will increase rapidly. Some EVs are already exceeding 500+ miles in range. Range anxiety will soon be a thing of the past.
• Just like driving any gas-powered car, you will know when your car is in need of a charge and can thus make charging decisions around your commutes to avoid inopportune driving situations. Rest assured, you will not unexpectedly run out of charge in the middle of the freeway.
• Most electric vehicles are designed with a “turtle mode,” which reduces power when the car is at a low battery, giving you a few more miles to drive to your nearest charging station before your car stops completely.
At-Home Charging and Installation
Consumers may find it inconvenient and even intimidating to charge electric vehicles. However, as the electric vehicle market grows, finding where to charge an electric car won't be difficult. There’s certainly no shortage of public charging stations or at-home charging options to choose from. Even tenants can urge property managers to install EV charger at an apartment for their convenience. Many drivers are also concerned that charging takes too long, however, as battery technology improves this too will be an issue of the past.
Here’s why you shouldn’t worry:
• Charging your electric vehicle overnight as a habit will mitigate concerns of long charging times, as you can charge your battery and wake up in the morning with a full charge with no inconvenience to your daily routine.
• If you need to charge your car away from home, public EV charging stations are springing up everywhere, providing a convenient means to charge up while running errands or while at work.
• With the JuiceBox home EV charging station, you can easily, quickly, and affordably charge your electric vehicle at home. With smart capabilities, such as a mobile app that allows you to schedule your charging session, monitor your charging status, and optimize your charging to reduce energy costs, home charging has never been easier.
Battery Life and Maintenance Costs
Although electric vehicles have lower maintenance costs when compared to internal combustion cars, some consumers have concerns regarding battery wear and costly battery replacement. These concerns, though valid, will soon be squashed by improved battery efficiency and forthcoming engineering developments.
Here’s why you shouldn’t worry:
• Electric vehicle batteries are getting more efficient every year. Lithium-ion cell energy density increases at about 7% yearly, resulting in better performance at a lower cost.
• Because electric vehicles are still in their infancy, there is a lot more data required to make any conclusive claims about EV battery life. Although most claim electric batteries last about ten years, Tesla’s batteries have shown to only decrease in approximately 10% of their energy capacity after 100,000 miles of driving.
• Furthermore, most popular electric car manufacturers offer attractive warranties on their EV battery packs that mitigate many—if not all—the costs associated with replacing said batteries.
If battery life is still a concern, here are a few ways to improve your electric car’s battery life:
• Reduce exposure to high temperatures – If you are in a temperate climate, you’re in luck. If not, consider storing your car in the shade, and be mindful of garage temperatures.
• Don’t Overcharge Your Battery – Charging your electric car past its voltage limit can damage the battery and reduce its longevity. Most cars have built-in management systems to prevent this.
• Do Not Drain the Battery Completely – Your electric car battery capacity will decrease over time if you frequently drain it completely. Try to avoid this by introducing regular charging to your weekly routine. Think about it like charging your phone—make it a habit you don’t even have to think about.
• Avoid Aggressive Driving Patterns – This involves not pulling excessive amounts of current from your battery in a short amount of time. Just practice safe and steady driving and you’ll be killing two birds with one stone.
Electric Cars are More Expensive
Finally, one of the biggest issues surrounding EVs: are electric cars more expensive than conventional cars? Currently, yes. However, many studies have shown that as technology advances, the costs associated with owning an electric car may be lower than those of gas-powered cars as early as three years from now.
Here’s why you shouldn’t worry:
• Just by cutting gas costs alone, an electric car will be less expensive in the long run. Currently, electric cars pay themselves off in about six years, depending on local gas prices and the type of car. However, as batteries get better and lighter, this payoff time will decrease even further.
• Powering your car with electricity generated from at-home solar panel charging can eliminate higher costs and further present a financial advantage by reducing your energy bill for the rest of your home.
• Although the upfront cost of owning an electric car is still higher than purchasing a comparable conventional vehicle, this cost can be viewed as a worthy upfront investment for valuable long-term benefits in cost and energy savings.
Choose the Right Car for You, Today
It is evident that the advantages of owning an electric vehicle far outweigh the disadvantages, but it is also important that you choose the right electric car for you. Some factors to consider are:
• Battery Life – Different models of electric cars use different methods of battery cooling that may affect battery longevity.
• Driving Range – Depending on your typical commute and driving habits, it may be worth it to shell out a bit more money for a more expensive electric car with a higher driving range. Also take into consideration the charging infrastructure of your local area.
• Battery Warranty – Consult your manufacturer before purchasing an electric car to better understand your rights should once your battery ever needs replacing.
• Price-point – As the electric vehicle market blossoms, the variety of electric vehicle options is steadily increasing, with many affordable options coming to market that are worthy considerations for a new consumer.
Most importantly, enjoy your smooth electrifying ride and rest assured that as you step on the pedal, you are doing both your planet and your wallet a favor.
Here's How to Decorate Your Home From Scratch
Are you moving into a new home and starting fresh? Before you start decorating your new home, make sure you change your address with the USPS. Don’t feel overwhelmed! Here are six new home decorating tips when you’re starting from scratch. You’ll see that decorating your new home is fun — and much easier than you think.
1. Figure out your decorating style
If you can pin down the design style you want for your home’s interior, you’re half way there! An easy rule of thumb is to use the same style for the interior as the home’s exterior. With an architectural home style like ranch or craftsman, dark, rich wood pieces, clean-lined furniture and lots of earth tones work well.
Here are four of the most popular home decorating styles to consider:
Transitional
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A transitional style goes with most home architectural styles. The look is a hybrid of modern and traditional — perfect for updating older home styles like colonial or Victorian, or warming up a new-construction home. The transitional home decorating style involves the use of dark woods, stone, neutral colors and earthy reds, sages and olive greens as accent colors. Furniture is fairly streamlined but features more ornamentation and curvier, softer lines.
Modern
David Papazian / Shutterstock
A modern decorating style is well-tailored and features clean lines. Wood and earth tones add a softer feel to the clean straight lines. Mid-century modern sofas or elements are popular. Ranch homes, Art Deco-era homes, and homes constructed during and after the 1950s tend to work best with modern decor.
Contemporary
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Contemporary design is the most sparse and minimalist of the design styles. Few pieces are used in each room. Color selection is normally pared down to black, white or grey with primary color accents. Metals and glass, instead of wood, are featured. When decorating from scratch, a contemporary style is a good idea when you’re working with smaller spaces and/or you want to highlight the home’s natural features, like big, bright windows or architectural details.
Farmhouse
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Farmhouse is very popular nowadays thanks to designers like Joanna Gaines. The style adds fun, cozy comfort and a bit of whimsy to your new home. To decorate from scratch in a farmhouse style, practical, cozy and inviting are most important. Sofas should be overstuffed for comfort and slipcovered for low maintenance. Wood tables are earthy and casual. Colors and accent pieces have a vintage or antique store feel.
New home decorating pro tip: Determine your home’s exterior style and do a little research. Take inspiration from the elements of that style and add your own twist to the look.
2. Break down your new home decorating plan by room
The fastest way to get overwhelmed by an empty new home is by trying to decorate the whole house at once. Prioritize what rooms are most important to you and make a decorating plan, one room at a time! Maybe you’ll want to start with your bedroom, living room and laundry room. Pick two or three rooms maximum and plan to decorate them one at a time.
Matching all the rooms in the house is a design myth. If you decide you want a transitional bedroom but a modern living room, go for it! Your home will have far more personality when you decorate from scratch, one room at a time. Just be sure to add a unifying element to all the rooms for flow, like a certain color, or a decor item in the home’s architectural design style.
Pro decorating tip: Not sure which rooms to start with? Think about what rooms you spend the most time in. You’ll want to do those first. You can always do the guest room later — close the guest room door and forget about it for a while.
3. Start with the biggest piece in the room first
Now that you’ve broken down your decorating plan to one room at a time, take the same concept and focus on finding the most important piece in the room.
The biggest piece in the room is usually the most important and most expensive. That’s why it’s important to start with that one piece and work your way from there. In a dining room, start with the dining table. For your living room, choose your sofa or sectional first. In your bedroom, the bed is the most important piece in the room.
Pro decorating tip: The biggest piece in the room is likely where you’ll invest the most money. It usually gets the most use in the room, therefore quality is important. You can probably save some money on accessorizing, picking up secondhand bedside tables or finding an inexpensive coffee table, but never skimp on your sofa!
4. Take advantage of the experts
Many stores offer free (or well-priced) design service to their customers. Most employ design professionals to help you make the right choice, the first time around. Their advice can save you a lot of time and money. Here are some stores that offer free or low-cost design consultations:
Pro decorating tip: This list is not exhaustive. Do your research and inquire if a store you like shopping at offers consultations or design service.
5. Paint is your new best friend
One of the easiest and cheapest ways to transform a blank canvas is by painting it! Repaint each room in a color of your choice. Now is not the time to be safe — choose a vibrant, bold or rich color. Even a neutral mocha shade or light grey can make more impact than plain white. And the best part is if you don’t like it, you can always repaint it.
Pro decorating tip: Paint the wall you want to bring the most attention to in a color that may be a little too bold for your taste. Once you do, you’ve created a focal wall. Use that shade in the smaller accessories like pillows, vases or rug to tie the room together.
6. Layer each room, over time
Decorating your new home is a marathon, not a sprint. As you spend more time in your new home, you’ll get to know it better. You may have new ideas on how you want a room to look and function a few months down the road, so no rush to get it all done at once! Be sure to check out second-hand decoration and furniture options to save even more. Here are the elements you’ll want to address over time:
Splashes of accent color
Flooring/carpets
Storage/organization
Accent tables
Lighting
Textiles like pillows and throws
Wall art
Window treatments
Now that you see how simple new home decorating from scratch can be, decide on your style, prioritize your rooms and get started. Your new home will look perfectly put together in no time!
Honda Motorcycles: Zooming Towards a Great Future!
When it comes to motorcycle engineering wonders, nothing comes close than what the Japanese can produce. And one such manufacturer that has made impressive strides in this industry is no other than Honda Motorcycles.
Success Shows in its History
The very first Honda motorcycle was manufactured way back 1949. The maroon Dream D-Type, which showcased the company’s fine and efficient engineering prowess, paved the way towards the brand’s successful future.
And what a great future was in store for Honda Motorcycles. Seeing the success of the motorcycle models in Japan, the company then decided to export its creations overseas. Since then, Honda did not only evolve and create some of the most wonderful motoring enhancements that motorcycles have seen worldwide.
In fact, the brand proved its worth by joining and winning several important races (such as the impressive Isle of Man TT Race!
Related: Other Japanese Motorcycle Brand Kawasaki Motorcycles: Zooming Towards a Fast and Blazing Future
Today, Honda Motorcycles is a constant and impressionable player when it comes to motorcycles. Offering a mix of performance and style in their vehicles, all sorts of motorists can definitely attest to the reliable force of these motorcycles.
Check Out these Honda Motorcycle Models
Let us now head on over in knowing more about some of the best Honda Motorcycles manufactured – and who knows, you may just want to get one after reading through the entries!
Honda Gold Wing
Image Source: By Tarrakaner – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0,
Enjoy what a big touring motorcycle should be. The Honda Gold Wing, first released last 1974, continues to be an in-demand model that performs excellently with style.
The 2018 variant, the GL1800, redesigns the overall look that this motorcycle had. Now featuring a four-valve engine, this model has a sportier look than its previous releases.
Additionally, the lighter frame complements the tech advancements that have been integrated into the model. In fact, Honda made use of robots to build the motorcycle’s frame, resulting in precise cuts and higher aerodynamic performance!
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Honda CB1100
Image Source: By 246-You – Flickr: HONDA CB1100 – 2009 Tokyo MotorShow, CC BY 2.0,
Proving that classic looks and performance are still in demand when it comes in motorcycles, the Honda CB1100 blends iconic styles with modern motoring enhancements.
The subtle style touches, such as the aluminum side panels, spoked wheels, and classy frame constructions brings about a rugged yet highly-stylish look! Additionally, the latest model does come with two impressive variants: the classic roadster and the customized cafe racer!
Suspension is impressive, with the reliable Showa bending valve integrated for smoother rides. The free valve structure of this motorcycle results in more control – just how you want it during drives!
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Honda 2020 Fireblade CBR1000RR-R
Image Source: By Rama. – Own work, CC BY-SA 2.0 fr,
The future is truly impressive with the 2020 CBR1000RR-R. A superbike like no other, this model proves that Honda knows how motorcycles should be.
Speed is of the essence in this motorcycle, with the MotoGP tech built into the model. Aerodynamic touches make this one of the smoothest motorcycles ever created! Also, the Öhlins Smart Electronic Control (S-EC) suspension showcases the beautiful control one has over this ride! Zoom on by in this motorcycle!
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Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin
Image Source: By Morio – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0,
Honda has also created a line of motorcycles to cater for motorists thirsting for adventure. And one great example is the CRF1100L Africa Twin, a rugged and exciting ride!
Just the tuned twin-cylinder exhaust shows that this is an impressionable motoring beast! Showcasing its off-road reliability, the functional design makes sure that this motorcycle can even handle the roughest terrain. Also, its main frame is lightweight – assuring you that you’re in control of it at all times!
The 1100CC engine is a beast, giving you the power to conquer all sorts of tracks! And with tech innovations such as a 6.5 inch TFT screen, you’ll be able to both be entertained and set up the right settings for each ride.
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Honda CMX500 Rebel
Image Source: By Luchs Later – [1], CC BY 2.0,
Bring some impressive street style with the Honda CMX500 Rebel. Built to impress, but without losing out on performance, this may just be one of the most stylish motorcycles from this brand!
Incorporating that really impressive bobber look, this motorcycle truly bridges the gap between modern and classic looks. With a focus on freedom, the CMX500 Rebel makes sure that drivers get to enjoy speed and comfort at the same time.
The liquid-cooled twin-cylinders bring in the power and control you’d need, a plus especially when you’re zooming down the road. Also, the assist-and-slipper clutch makes gear changes a breeze! It’s a really stylish and comfortable drive in this motorcycle!
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Honda VFR800F
Image Source: By [email protected] – The 43rd Tokyo Motor Show 2013_PENTAX K-3_152, CC BY-SA 2.0,
The perfect blend of sport and touring motorcycle variants, the Honda VFR800F makes each trip an adventure.
Fluid may just be the best way to describe this motorcycle. Bringing a sense of high style and performance on each ride, the VFR800F always makes sure that it will deliver a satisfying experience. With a simple application of seat adjustment, you’ll be at your most comfortable position when taking this beast out for a spin!
Also, the unique Honda Traction Control System (TCS) assures you that you will always be in control! The VFR800F is also lightweight, making it really easy to maneuver. The fuel injected DOHC 16-valve V4-VTEC engine assures you of balance and power – a fluid motorcycle performance indeed!
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Honda CRF450R
Image Source: By Dbratland – Own work, CC BY 3.0,
Enjoy what an exciting motocross experience should be with the Honda CRF450R. With impressive power and style, this is one ride that will leave competitors behind!
Strength is apparent in this vehicle. Torque is excellent, with an 1.8kW peak power to behold. Also, a 3-level HRC launch control gives you the extra boost right at the start of each ride!
It’s also built to endure even the roughest terrain conditions. It may be lightweight, but construction takes into consideration all sorts of elements that this motorcycle may face out in the track. Additionally, the engine mode select button makes shifting to the right settings a breeze!
It’s just that impressive – you end up as a winner driving the CRF450R!
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Probably Some of the Best Motorcycles Manufactured
Whatever the model line, Honda Motorcycles proves that every detail is considered when crafting a vehicle. This attention to detail should be more than enough reason for you to get a motorcycle from this brand!
Other List of Honda Bikes
Honda CT110 Hunter Cub
Image Source: By Mike Schinkel – originally posted to Flickr as Barber Motorcycle Museum – Oct 22 2006 (97), CC BY 2.0,
Honda Express
Image Source: By User Jax184 on – This photograph was taken March 9th, 2006 in Vancouver, Canada and shows a 1982 Honda Express (NC50) that I own.Photographed by Isaac Vallee, [email protected] , CC BY-SA 2.5,
Honda MB50
Image Source: By Danie van der Merwe from Cape Town, South Africa – Second Motorcycle, CC BY 2.0,
Honda Elite 150
Image Source: By Tcjames.yu – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0,
Honda Super Cub
Image Source: By Mj-bird – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0,
Honda Dio
Image Source: By TTTNIS – Own work, Public Domain,
Honda FC50
Image Source: By baku13 – photo taken by baku13, CC BY-SA 3.0,
Honda CHF50
Image Source: By User Detroit.bus on – Photo taken by Detroit.bus, CC BY-SA 2.5,
Other Honda Motorcycle Resources:
Honda Global Motorcycle Models
List of all Honda Motorcycles on Wikipedia
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